earwig

Plural: earwigs

Noun

any of numerous insects of the order Dermaptera having elongate bodies and slender many-jointed antennae and a pair of large pincers at the rear of the abdomen
Any of various insects of the order Dermaptera that have elongated bodies, large membranous wings folded underneath short leathery forewings and a pair of large pincers protruding from the rear of the abdomen.
One who whispers insinuations; a secret counsellor.
A flatterer.

Verb

Verb Forms: earwigged, earwigging, earwigs

To pester or annoy by whispered suggestions or gossip.
To fill the mind of with prejudice by insinuations.
To attempt to influence by persistent confidential argument or talk.
To eavesdrop.
To eavesdrop on.

Examples

He tried to EARWIG his opponent into making a bad move, but she ignored him.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English erwigge, from Old English ēarwicga, from ēare (“ear”) + wicga (“insect”), so named from the appearance of the hindwings, which are unique in their resemblance to human ears when unfolded.

Synonyms

forkytail, pincher bug, twinge

Scrabble Score: 10

earwig: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
earwig: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
earwig: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 11

earwig: valid Words With Friends Word